NTLEP Awards Four Journalists for Excellence in Fighting TB, Leprosy

Malawi-The National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Elimination Programme (NTLEP) has awarded four journalists for their outstanding performance in the fight against the diseases, writes Wezzie Mwangonde.

The awards were given to journalists whose news stories showed investigative reporting, accuracy, and consistency, and attracted stakeholders' attention.

Doreen Sonani, the NTLEP Media Network Coordinator, stated that the network has over 60 journalists who help in raising awareness on different platforms. She encouraged other journalists to continue with their commitment towards TB and leprosy reporting.

"This year we received about 90 news stories in the entry of 2023 TB and Leprosy media awards, but only four journalists have been shortlisted. This shows that journalists are playing an important role in the fight against TB and Leprosy in the country," said Sonani.

Meclina Chirwa from Timveni radio, one of the awardees, expressed her gratitude for receiving the award as the best radio reporter.

She said that it is a significant milestone in her life and career as a journalist and has urged her fellow journalists to keep pushing and work extra harder in raising awareness towards TB and Leprosy prevention.

"I am humbly thankful, and it is a motivation for me to continue having the highest level of dedication in this job. I am truly overwhelmed by this chance to receive this award," said Chirwa.

The other awardees were Rose Chipumphula from Montfort Media, Lauryn Tembenu from Mibawa Television, and Tamanda Tebule from MIJ Online, who was also the overall winner.

The NTLEP awards recognize the crucial role played by journalists in creating awareness about TB and Leprosy in the country.